A Field Guide to Smashing the Patriarchy and Claiming Your Space
Starred review from August 1, 2018
A feminist history and primer for today's women.Unladylike podcast hosts Conger and Ervin present an encyclopedic overview of gender roles in history, aiming not only to enlighten teen readers about centuries of women's experiences, but to motivate them to stand up for themselves and grow into complete, conscientious adults. Warning readers "it's time to get comfy with being uncomfy," this comprehensive action guide addresses many aspects of contemporary living, including body image, the beauty industry, sexuality, the workplace, biased language, and activism. Some of the volume's pithiest and timeliest segments illuminate the fraught history of women's reproductive rights. The book offers numerous practical tips for "detoxing from the sexist myths, mind-sets, and stereotypes culture constantly force-feeds us," and compells readers with its sassy, take-no-prisoners colloquial style to adopt the authors' Guerilla Girls-esque mantra: "stay curious. build empathy. raise hell." Along the way, the authors call out numerous feminist trailblazers--Anita Hill, Fanny Kemble, Qiu Jin, Florynce "Flo" Kennedy--in an effort to demonstrate that ordinary people can step up to disrupt the status quo and introduce change. Full-color infographics and illustrations make historical examples of women's subjugation and hair-raising statistics on various types of gender and racial inequity more accessible. Intersectionality and gender identity are also addressed and referred to throughout.Gritty, wildly informative, and informed: a must-have feminist survival guide for the Trump era. (notes, index) (Nonfiction. 14-adult)
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Starred review from October 1, 2018
Following the success of their hit podcast Unladylike, Conger and Ervin have teamed with illustrator Feder for this smart, sassy field guide for feminists. While some content may be more applicable to younger readers, this book follows in the same vein as Kelly Williams Brown's Adulting, providing life advice and fact-filled information for modern women. With chapters devoted to a wide range of topics, including the wage gap, dating, and beauty, it's bound to benefit feminists looking to smash the patriarchy and live their best lives. Part of the appeal is found in the art and infographics, which often comically portray the messages crafted by Conger and Ervin and help drive home their message. VERDICT Unapologetic and witty, this work is a great choice for followers of Jennifer Baumgardner and Roxane Gay but will also appeal to young adults and graphic novels fans.--Mattie Cook, Flat River Community Lib., MI
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